Celtic have triggered the option to recall Stephen Welsh from his loan at Motherwell.
The centre-back, 25, had been expected to remain at Fir Park for the rest of the Scottish Premiership season, but will now return to Celtic.
First reported by Sky Sports, Celtic took up the option to cut short the deal in January with Martin O’Neill wanting more cover at centre-back.
The Parkhead club were thought to have had until January 14 to decide on whether they would recall Welsh.
The report states Celtic had been willing to listen to offers for Welsh but now wish to keep hold of the player as part of their squad.
It’s claimed Celtic had received an enquiry from a Scottish Premiership side on Friday for Welsh.
Meanwhile, Celtic have registered an interest in Hibernian striker Kieron Bowie.
The Parkhead club wishes to be kept in the loop over any transfer activity surrounding the Scotland internationalist.
Rangers are also interested in the striker, with Hibs valuing the player at £6.5m.
Celtic saw a possible move for Kyogo Furuhashi thwarted last week with the forward wishing to remain at Birmingham.
As it stands, O’Neill only has Johnny Kenny as a fit option as an out-and-out striker, albeit with Daizen Maeda capable of playing in the position.
Callum Osmand and Kelechi Iheanacho are both injured.